Key result
Auscultatory gap in hypertension linked to more than doubled prevalence of atherosclerotic plaques.
Why the study?
The relation of the auscultatory gap during blood pressure measurement to cardiovascular structure and function in hypertensive patients was unclear.
Is the presence of an auscultatory gap associated with adverse cardiovascular structure and function in hypertensive patients?
Population
168 persons with hypertension who were otherwise healthy and not receiving medication
Comparison
Presence vs absence of an auscultatory gap during blood pressure measurement
Design
Cross-sectional study at a hypertension center in a university hospital
Authors
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Auscultatory gaps may signal carotid atherosclerosis and stiffness in hypertension; hypothesis-generating for prognostic value, pending prospective confirmation.
Cross-Sectional (n=168)
No
Is the presence of an auscultatory gap associated with adverse cardiovascular structure and function in hypertensive patients?
Absolute Event Rate: 50% vs 22%
p-value: p=<0.002
The presence of an auscultatory gap during blood pressure measurement in hypertensive patients is an independent marker for increased arterial stiffness and carotid atherosclerosis.
Marco Cavallini (1996) conducted a cross-sectional in hypertension (n=168). Auscultatory gap vs. No auscultatory gap was evaluated on Atherosclerotic plaques (p=<0.002). The presence of an auscultatory gap in hypertensive patients was associated with increased arterial stiffness and a higher prevalence of atherosclerotic plaques (50% vs 22%; P<0.002).
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